NAQP Owners Return to Chicago

The 2010 NAQP Owners Conference returned to its traditional time and location in Chicago immediately prior to GRAPH EXPO 2010. Specifically tailored to the needs of the quick and small commercial printer, the conference featured a full slate of educational sessions, the annual Awards Luncheon, and a Supplier Showcase tabletop exhibit and reception.

The conference kicked off with a keynote presentation by former Kodak Chief Marketing Officer Jeffrey Hayzlett who shared with attendees the key principles contained in his new book “The Mirror Test—How to Breathe New Life Into Your Business.” That was followed by a social media session and three breakout sessions including a live social media workshop.

The highlight of the day was the 2010 Awards Luncheon honoring both individuals and the Printing Excellence award winning printed pieces. The 2010 NAQP Printer of the Year Award went to Scott Cappel, owner of Sorrento Mesa Printing in San Diego, CA. In business since 1987, he was honored for his contributions to the industry, his community, and the association. In accepting the award, he credited his employees for his success. “Without my employees, many who have been with me for 15 years, I could never have achieved the success I have enjoyed and would not be here accepting this honor.”

Also singled out for recognition was Brian O’Day, former NAQP Chairman and owner of e-Print in Portland, OR. He was unable to attend so the award was accepted by his production manager.

The Awards continued with recognition of printing excellence in 18 different categories ranging from single color offset to color digital to cross-media marketing. Best of Show was awarded to Rick Schildgen of CL Graphics in Crystal Lake, IL.

Day two began with a marketing keynote and was followed by a series of breakout sessions on mergers and acquisitions, cross-media marketing, variable data, and search engine optimization. The conference closed with a keynote, “Taking Action! Staying Positive in a Challenging Industry.”

“The NAQP Owners Conference is one of the most valuable benefits of NAQP membership,” said Keith Kemp, 2009 Printer of the Year and Chairman of the NAPL Board of Directors. “It offers a unique educational opportunity as well as a great time to interact with one’s peers.”